Ridiculous: Solar scientist loses fight to rid tree

A former NASA scientist who experimented with solar panels and cells cannot axe a mature oak tree in his Mawson garden which he says blocks sunlight from his $10,000 solar panels.

Dharma Sharma's expertise in energy efficiency in Australia and India and while working on satellite experiments did not sway the ACT Conservator of Flora and Fauna, nor the Civil and Administrative Appeals Tribunal, who reconsidered and confirmed the conservator's decision.

Dr Sharma said the oak, in the north-west section of his yard, threw a partial shadow over his solar panels for most of the day during winter and blocked sunlight during summer afternoons, which interfered with solar generation.